Canberra’s New Lyric Theatre Reaches Major Construction Milestone
Construction of Canberra Theatre Centre’s new Lyric Theatre has reached a significant milestone, with the project now beginning to emerge from the ground as foundation works near completion.
The achievement marks an important step forward in the delivery of what will become a world-class performing arts venue and a transformative addition to Canberra’s cultural infrastructure.
Since construction commenced in Jan 2026, project delivery partner Multiplex has completed a substantial body of foundational work across the site. This includes the installation of deep foundation piles, excavation of basement areas, major structural concrete works and construction of the orchestra pit, which represents the deepest excavation point of the project.
These early works have established the foundation for the theatre’s superstructure and enabled the project to move into its next phase of construction.
The project team is now progressing the construction of the theatre’s stage and floor structures, while also installing key building infrastructure including lift shafts, utilities and other essential services. With these elements taking shape, the theatre is becoming increasingly visible within the city landscape.
Upcoming construction milestones include installation of the building’s façade and roof, allowing the distinctive architectural form of the venue to become more apparent over the coming months as the new theatre remains on track for completion in 2028.
The theatre’s design has been shaped through extensive engagement with the community and industry stakeholders. Input has been gathered from First Nations peoples, people with disabilities and accessibility advocates, multicultural communities, LGBTQIA+ communities, performing arts stakeholders and future venue users. This collaborative approach has helped ensure the venue reflects the diverse needs and aspirations of the community it will serve.
Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from Canberra’s landscape and cultural history. The design palette references elements of the local environment, including the woodlands of Black Mountain, the granite landscapes of Birrigai and Namadgi, the ochres of Mount Ainslie and the textures of the Molonglo River corridor. These influences are reflected through the materials, colours and detailing incorporated into the building, helping create a venue that is uniquely connected to place.
One of the defining features of the design will be a large triangular skylight positioned above the main staircase. The skylight will introduce natural light into the foyer and create a visual connection between the building and the Canberra sky, enhancing the visitor experience while reinforcing the theatre’s relationship with its surrounding environment.
Once complete, the Lyric Theatre will seat 2,000 people, significantly expanding Canberra’s ability to host major national and international productions, including large-scale musicals, ballet, opera, music, comedy and other touring performances that have previously bypassed the national capital due to venue limitations.
As construction continues to progress, the emergence of the theatre above ground is providing the first tangible glimpse of a venue that will redefine the scale and ambition of performing arts in Canberra. With strong construction progress achieved during its first year and major structural works well advanced, the Lyric Theatre is steadily moving from vision to reality and towards its future role as a landmark cultural destination for the ACT and the wider region.